Thunderbolt race is on

One good thing about this never-ending winter is that the annual race down the Thunderbolt Trail on Mount Greylock may finally go off as planned:

For the first time in three years, there will be plenty of snow on the ground for the annual Thunderbolt Ski Race and Thunderfest afterparty this weekend. The festival, just a few years old, has never been held on the same day as the ski race.

The race, held on Mount Greylock, matches up 67 skiers on the historic backwoods Thunderbolt Ski Trail, which its riders tout as the most unique in the county. The Thunderfest, held directly after the race this year, is a winter celebration that includes a bonfire and chowder cook-off.

Each year, the two events attract thousands of visitors, and with the weather staying cold, their organizers are hoping for a record-setting year.